IoGENERAL OPERATION â¢ Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields when operating â¢ Read , understand , and follow all mower . instructionson the machineand in the manual ( s ) before starting . Be thoroughlyr il , SLOPE OPERATION familiarwith the controls and the prope Slopes are a major factor related to slip & useof the machinebefore starting . fall accidents which can result in severe in - â¢ Do not put hands or feet near or under jury . All slopes require extra caution . If you rotatingparts . Keep clear of the dis - feel uneasy on a slope , do not mow it . charge opening at all times . DO : â¢ Only allow responsibleindividuals , who â¢ Mow across the face of slopes : never are familiar with the instructions , to oper - up and down . Exercise extreme caution ate the machine . when changing direction on slopes . â¢ Clear the area of objects such as rocks , â¢ Remove obstacles such as rocks , tree toys , wire , bones , sticks , etc . , which limbs , etc . could be picked up and thrown by blade . â¢ Watch for holes , ruts , or bumps . Tall Be sure the area is clear of other people grass can hide obstacles . before mowing . Stop machine if anyone enters the area . DO NOT : Do not operate the mower when bare - â¢ Do not trim near drop - offs , ditches or foot or wearing open sandals . Always embankments . The operator could lose wear substantial foot wear . footing or balance . Do not pull mower backwards unless â¢ Do not trim excessively steep slopes . absolutely necessary . Always look down â¢ Do not mow on wet grass . Reduced foot - and behind before and while moving ing could cause slipping . backwards . i11 . CHILDREN â¢ Never direct discharged material toward Tragic accidents can occur if the operator anyone . Avoid discharging material is not alert to the presence of children . against a wall or obstruction . Material Children are often attracted to the machine may richochet back toward the opera - and the mowing activity . Never assume tor . Stop the blade when crossing gravel surfaces . that children will remain where you last saw them . â¢ Do not operate the mower without â¢ Keep children out of the trimming area proper guards , plates , grass catcher or and under the watchful care of another other safety protective devices in place . â¢ See manufacturer's instructions for responsible adult . â¢ Be alert and turn machine off if children proper operation and installation of enter the area . accessories . Only use accessories ap - â¢ Before and while walking backwards , proved by the manufacturer . look behind and down for small children . â¢ Stop the blade ( s ) when crossing gravel â¢ Never allow children to operate the ma - drives , walks , or roads . chine . â¢ Stop the engine ( motor ) whenever you â¢ Use extra care when approaching blind leave the equipment , before cleaning the corners , shrubs , trees , or other objects mower or unclogging the chute . that may obscure vision . â¢ Shut the engine ( motor ) off and wait until the blade comes to complete stop before IV . SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE removing grass catcher . Use extreme care in handling gasoline . â¢ Mow only in daylight or good artificial Gasoline is extremely flammable and the light . vapors are explosive . â¢ Do not operate the machine while under â¢ Extinguish all cigarettes , cigars , pipes the influence of alcohol or drugs . and other sources of ignition . â¢ Never operate machine in wet grass . â¢ Use only an approved container . Always be sure of your footing : keep a â¢ Never remove gas cap or add fuel with firm hold on the handle ; walk , never run . the engine running . Allow engine to cool â¢ Disengage the self - propelled mech - before refueling . anism or drive clutch on mowers so â¢ Never refuel the machine indoors . equipped before starting the engine . â¢ Never store the machine or fuel contain - â¢ If the equipment should start to vibrate er where there is an open flame , spark abnormally , stop the engine ( motor ) and or pilot light such as a water heater or on check immediately for the cause . Vibra - other appliances . tion is generally a warning of trouble . Page: 4

â¢ Never fill containers insidea vehicle , on â¢ Keep nuts and bolts , especially blade a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner . attachment bolts , tight and keep equip - Always place containerson the ground ment in good condition . away from yourvehicle before filling . â¢ Never tamper with safety devices . Check â¢ Removegas - poweredequipmentfrom their proper operation regularly . the truck or trailer and refuel it on the â¢ Keep machine free of grass , leaves , or ground . Ifthis is not possible , then other debris build - up . Clean oil or fuel refuel such equipmentwith a portable spillage . Allow machine to cool before container , ratherthan from a gasoline storing . dispenser nozzle . â¢ Stop and inspect the equipment if you â¢ Keep the nozzle in contactwith the rim strike an object . Repair , if necessary , of the fuel tank or containeropening at before restarting . all times until fueling is complete . Do â¢ Never attempt to make wheel height not use a nozzlelock - opendevice . adjustments while the engine is running . â¢ If fuel is spilled on clothing , change â¢ Grass catcher components are subject clothing immediately . to wear , damage , and deterioration , â¢ Never overfill fuel tank . Replacegas which could expose moving parts or cap and tighten securely . allow objects to be thrown . Frequently check components and replace with manufacturer's recommended parts , V . GENERAL SERVICE when necessary . â¢ Never run a machine insidea closed â¢ Mower blades are sharp and can cut . area . Wrap the blade ( s ) or wear gloves , and â¢ Never makeadjustmentsor repairswithct use extra caution when servicing them . the engine ( motor ) running . iDisconnereental â¢ Do not change the engine governor set - the spark plugwire , and keep the wcid ting or overspeed the engine . away from the plug to prevent ac â¢ Maintain or replace safety and instruc - starting . tion labels , as necessary . AWARNING : This lawn mower is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest - covered , brush - covered or grass - covered land unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws ( if any ) , If a spark arrester is used , it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator , In the state of California the above is required by law ( Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code ) , Other states may have similar laws , Federal laws apply on federal lands , A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest Sears Parts & Repair Center ( See the REPAIR PARTS section of this manual ) , Serial Number : Date of Purchase : Gasoline Capacity / Type : 1.6 Quarts ( Unleaded Regular ) Oil Type ( API SG - SL ) : SAE 30 ( above 32 Â° F ) ; SAE 5W - 30 ( below 32 Â° F ) Oil Capacity : 20 Ounces Spark Plug ( Gap : . 030 " ) Champion RJ19HX Blade Bolt Torque : 35 - 40 ft . Ibs . â¢ The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal on the rear of the lawn mower housing . Record both serial number and date of purchase in space provided above . 4 Page: 5

Repair Protection Agreements Congratulations on making a smart pur - â¢ Fast help by phone - phone sup - chase . Your new Craftsman Â® product is port from a Sears representative on designed and manufactured for years of products requiring in - home repair , plus dependable operation . But like all prod - convenient repair scheduling . ucts , it may require repair from time to Once you purchase the Agreement , a time . That's when having a Repair Protec - simple phone call is all that it takes for you tion Agreement can save you money and to schedule service . You can call anytime aggravation . day or night , or schedule a service ap - pointment online . Purchase a Repair Protection Agreement Sears has over 12,000 professional repair now and protect yourself from unexpected specialists , who have access to over 4.5 hassle and expense . million quality parts and accessories . That's the kind of professionalism you can Here's what's included in the Agreement : count on to help prolong the life of your â¢ Expert service by our 12,000 profe - new purchase for years to come . Purchase sional repair specialists . your Repair Protection Agreement todayg â¢ Unlimited service and no charge for Some limitations and exclusions apply . parts and labor on all covered repairs . For prices and additional information call 1 - 800 = 827 - 6655 . â¢ Product replacement if your covered product can't be fixed . Sears Installation Service â¢ Discount of 10 % from regular price of service and service - related parts not For Sears professional installation of home covered by the agreement ; also , 10 % appliances , garage door openers , water off regular price of preventive mainte - heaters , and other major home items , in nance check . the U . S . A . call 1 - 800 = 4 = MY - HOME Â® . These accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced . They are not shipped with your mower . They are also available at most Sears retail outlets and service centers . Some of these accessories may not apply to your lawn mower . LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE CLIPPING DEFLECTORS FOR STABILIZER CANS REAR DISCHARGE GAS LAWN MOWERS GRASS CATCHERS GRASS CATCHERS FOR FOR REAR DISCHARGE SIDE DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS LAWN MOWERS LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE MUFFLERS AIR FILTERS SPARK PLUGS BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS ENGINE OIL Page: 6

HOW TO SET UP YOUR MOWER Read these instructions and this manual in its entirety before you attempt to assemble TO UNFOLD HANDLE or operate your new lawn mower . iMPORTANT : Unfold handle carefully so iMPORTANT : This lawn mower is shipped as not to pinch or damage control cables . WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the 1 . Raise handles until lower handle sec - engine . tion locks into place in mowing posi - Your new lawn mower has been assem - tion . bled at the factory with the exception of 2 . Remove protective padding , raise up - those parts left unassembled for shipping per handle section into place on lower purposes . To ensure safe and proper handle and tighten both handle knobs . operation of your lawn mower , all parts 3 . Remove handle padding holding and hardware you assemble must be tight - operator presence control bar to upper ened securely . Use the correct tools as handle . necessary to ensure proper tightness . All Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted parts such as nuts , washers , bolts , etc . , for your mowing comfort . Refer to " AD - necessary to complete the assembly have JUST HANDLE " in the Service and Adjust - been placed in the parts bag . ments section of this manual . TO REMOVE MOWER FROM Operator MOWING CARTON presence POSITION control bar 1 . Remove loose parts included with mower . 2 . Cut down two end corners of carton and lay end panel down flat . 3 . Remove all packing materials except padding between upper and lower LIFT Uppere UP handle and padding holding operator handl presence control bar to upper handle . 4 . Roll lawn mower out of carton and check carton thoroughly for additional Handle loose parts . knob Lower handle Page: 7

TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER TO PREPARE BATTERY 1 . Put grass catcher frame into grass bag NOTE : Your battery must be charged with rigid part of bag on the bottom . before you can start your lawn mower . Make sure the frame handle is outside 1 . Connect battery charger connector ( male ) to harness connector ( female ) . of the bag top . 2 . Slip vinyl bindings over frame . 2 . Plug battery charger into 110 volt A . C . outlet . NOTE : If vinyl bindings are too stiff , hold them in warm water for a few minutes . If 3 . Leave battery charger connected for bag gets wet , let it dry before using . 24 hours before starting your engine for the first time . Frame 4 . After charging , disconnect harness connector ( female ) from battery char - ger connector ( male ) . Connect your battery charger to charge battery after each use . IMPORTANT : The engine will not re - charge your battery . At the end of the mowing season the battery should be charged for 48 hours to _ lbotect the battery during winter storage . CAUTION : Always disconnect the engine connector ( male ) from the battery connector ( female ) to prevent accidental Frame Vinyl starting when transporting or storing your bindings opening lawn mower after the season . Engine Harness connector connector \ Charger connector ( male ) TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be used as a mulcher . To convert mower to bagging or discharging , see " TO CON - VERT MOWER " in the Operation section of this manual . Page: 8

DRIVE CONTROL ADJUSTMENT The operationof any lawn mower canresult Over time , the drive control system may become " loose " , resulting in decreased inforeign objects thrown speed . There are holes in the drive intothe eyes , which can control housing to increase tension on the resultin severe eye dam - drive cable . Proceed as follows : age . Always wear safety glasses or eye 1 . Turn unit off and disconnect spark plug shieldswhile operating your lawn mower wire from spark plug . or performingany adjustmentsor repairs . 2 . Loosen nut , move drive control hous - We recommenda standardsafety glasses ing down handle to the next hole and or wide vision safety maskworn over retighten nut . spectacles . 3 . Operate mower to test drive speed . 4 . If condition fails to improve after the HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER above steps ( forward speed remains ENGINE SPEED the same ) , your drive belt is worn and should be replaced . Engine speed was set at the factory for O ) resence control bar optimum performance . It is not adjustable . ENGINE ZONE CONTROL AI : IC , AUTION : Federal regulations require DRIVE Drive an engine control to be installed on this CONTROL control bar lawn mower in order to minimize the risk ENGAGED of blade contact injury . Do not under DRIVE any circumstances attempt to defeat the CONTROL function of the operator control . The blade DISENGAGED turns when the engine is running . â¢ Your lawn mower is equipped with an operator presence control bar which TO ADJUST , requires the operator to be positioned MOVE DOWN behind the lawn mower handle to start TO NEXT HOLE and operate the lawn mower . DRIVE CONTROL TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT â¢ Self - propelling is controlled by hold - Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels ing the operator presence control bar for high cut , adjust cutting height to suit down to the handle and pulling the drive your requirements . Medium position is control bar up to the handle . The closer best for most lawns . to the handle the bar is pulled , the faster â¢ To change cutting height , squeeze ad - the unit will travel . juster lever toward wheel . Move wheel â¢ Forward motion will stop when either up or down to suit your requirements . the operator presence control bar or Be sure all wheels are in the same set - drive control bar are released . To stop ting . forward motion without stopping engine , NOTE : Adjuster is properly positioned release the drive control bar only . Hold when plate tab inserts into hole in lever . operator presence control bar down Also , 9 - position adjusters ( if so equipped ) against handle to continue mowing allow lever to be positioned between the without self - propelling . plate tabs . NOTE : If after releasing the drive control LEVER BACKWARD Plate tab the mower will not roll backwards , push TO LOWER MOWER the mower forward slightly to disengage drive wheels . â¢ To keep drive control engaged when turning corners , push down on the handle to lift the front wheels off the ground while turning lawn mower . LEVER FORWARD TO RAISE MOWER Lever Page: 10

ADD GASOLINE â¢ Fill fuel tank to bottom of tank filler neck . Do not overfill . Use fresh , clean , regular Grass unleaded gasoline with a minimum of catcher 87 octane . Do not mix oil with gasoline . frame Purchase fuel in quantities that can be handle used within 30 days to assure fuel fresh - ness . CAUTION : Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel . Do not store , spill or use gasoline near an open flame . _ i , CAUTION : Alcohol blended fuels / > _ ; _ : X > _ ; a ( called gasohol or using ethanol or metha - nol ) can attract moisture which leads to separation and formation of acids during storage . Acidic gas can damage the fuel BEFORE STARTING ENGINE system of an engine while in storage . To avoid engine problems , the fuel system ADD OIL should be emptied before storage of 30 Your lawnmower is shipped without oil in days or longer . Empty the gas tank , start the engine . For type and grade of oil to the engine and let it run until the fuel lines use , see " ENGINE " in the Maintenance and carburetor are empty . Use fresh fuel section of this manual . next season . See Storage Instructions for â¢ i , CAUTION : DO NOT overfill engine with additional information . Never use engine oil , or it will smoke heavily from the muffler or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel on startup . tank or permanent damage may occur . 1 . Be sure lawnmower is level . 2 . Remove oil dipstick from oil fill spout . 3 . You receive a container of oil with the TO STOP ENGINE unit . Slowly pour the entire container â¢ To stop engine , release operator pres - down the oil fill spout into the engine . ence control bar . NOTE : Initial oil fill requires only 18 oz . due to residual oil in engine from the TO START ENGINE manufacturers 100 % quality testing . When NOTE : Due to protective coatings on the changing oil you may need 20 oz . engine , a small amount of smoke may be 4 . Insert and tighten dipstick . IMPORTANT : present during the initial use of the product and should be considered normal . â¢ Check oil level before each use . Add oil if needed . Fill to full line on dipstick . NOTE : Your engine is equipped with an automatic choke system . No priming or â¢ Change the oil after every 25 hours of choking is required before starting . operation or each season . You may â¢ To start engine , hold operator presence need to change the oil more often control bar down to the handle and turn under dusty , dirty conditions . See " TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL " in the Mainte - the start key . nance section of this manual . IMPORTANT : Do not crank engine more than five continous seconds between each time you try to start . Wait 5 to 10 seconds Engine between each attempt . oil cap â¢ To start engine using the rope starter , hold operator presence control bar down to the handle and pull starter handle quickly . Do not allow starter rope to snap back . Gasoline filler cap 11 Page: 12

MOWING TIPS MULCHING MOWING TIPS CAUTION : Do not use de - thatcher IMPORTANT : For best performance , blade attachments on your mower . Such keep mower housing free of built - up attachments are hazardous , will damage grass and trash . See " CLEANING " in the Maintenance section of this manual . your mower and could void your warranty . â¢ Under certain conditions , such as very â¢ The special mulching blade will recut tall grass , it may be necessary to raise the grass clippings many times and the height of cut to reduce pushing effort reduce them in size so that as they fall and to keep from overloading the engine onto the lawn they will disperse into and leaving clumps of grass clippings . the grass and not be noticed . Also , the It may also be necessary to reduce mulched grass will biodegrade quickly to ground speed and / or run the lawn provide nutrients for the lawn . Always mower over the area a second time . mulch with your highest engine ( blade ) â¢ For extremely heavy cutting , reduce the speed as this will provide the best recut - width of cut by overlapping previously ting action of the blades . cut path and mow slowly . , Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet . â¢ For better grass bagging and most cut - Wet grass tends to form clumps and ting conditions , the engine speed should interferes with the mulching action . The be set in the FAST position . best time to mow your lawn is the early â¢ Pores in cloth grass catchers can afternoon . At this time the grass has become filled with dirt and dust with use dried , yet the newly cut area will not be and catchers will collect less grass . To exposed to direct sunlight . prevent this , regularly hose catcher off , For best results , adjust the lawn mower with water and let dry before using . cutting height so that the lawn mower â¢ Keep top of engine around starter clear cuts off only the top one - third of the and clean of grass clippings and chaff . grass blades . If the lawn is overgrown This will help engine air flow and extend it will be necessary to raise the height of engine life . cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep from overloading the engine and leaving clumps of mulched grass . For extremely heavy grass , reduce your width of cut by overlapping previously cut path and mow slowly . MAX 1 / 3 â¢ Certain types of grass and grass conditions may require that an area be mulched a second time to completely hide the clippings . When doing a sec - ond cut , mow across ( perpendicular ) to the first cut path . â¢ Change your cutting pattern from week to week . Mow north to south one week then change to east to west the next week . This will help prevent matting and graining of the lawn . 12 Page: 13

BEFORE AFTER EVERY EVERY EVERY MAINTENANCE EACH EACH 10 25 HOURS 100 BEFORE USE USE HOURS OR SEASON HOURS STORAGE SCHEDULE Check for Loose Fasteners _ Clean / Inspect Grass Catcher * Check Tires _ Check Drive Wheels Clean Lawn Mower . . . . t / i / M Clean under Drive Cover * * * i / O Check Drive Belt / Pulleys * * * i / i / 3 _ Check / Sharpen / Replace Blade R Lubrication Clean and Recharge Battery * * Check Engine Oil level i / s I _ Change Engine Oil 11 _ , 2 N Clean Air Filter 14 I / _ Inspect Muffler i / N Replace Spark Plug I _ Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge 14 Empty fuel system or add Stabilizer I / * ( if so equipped ) 1 - Change more often if operating under a heavy load or in high outdoor temperatures . 2 - Service more often if operating in dirty or dusty conditions . * * Electric - Start mowers 3 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil , * * * Power - Propelled mowers 4 - Charge 48 hours at end of season . * * * * Use a scraperer to clean und deck 5 - And after each 5 hours of use . GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS LUBRICATION CHART The warranty on this lawn mower does not ( _ Wheel cover items that have been subjected to adjuster ( on operator abuse or negligence , To receive each wheel ) full value from the warranty , operator must maintain unit as instructed in this manual , ( _ ) Engine oil Some adjustments will need to be made periodically to properly maintain your unit , At least once a season , check to see if ( _ Mulcher I / you should make any of the adjustments door hinge described in the Service and Adjustments I \ pin section of this manual , k â¢ At least once a year , replace the spark J ( _ Rear door plug , clean or replace air filter element hinge and check blade for wear , A new spark plug and clean / new air filter element assure proper air - fuel mixture and help your engine run better and last longer , â¢ Follow the maintenance schedule in this manual , ( _ Handle bracket mounting pins ( _ Spray lubricant BEFORE EACH USE ( _ ) See " ENGINE " in Maintenance section . â¢ Check engine oil level . â¢ Check for loose fasteners . IMPORTANT : Do not oil or grease plastic wheel bearings . Viscous lubricants will LUBRICATION attract dust and dirt that will shorten the life of Keep unit well lubricated the self - lubricating bearings . If you feel they ( See " LUBRICATION CHART " ) . must be lubricated , use only a dry , powdered 3graphite type lubricant sparingly . 1 Page: 14

4 . Use block of wood between blade and LAWN MOWER lawn mower housing and tighten the Always observe safety rules when per - blade bolt , turning clockwise . forming any maintenance . Recommendedtighteningtorque : 35 - 40ft.lbs . TIRES IMPORTANT : Blade bolt is heat treated . â¢ Keep tires free of gasoline , oil , or insect If bolt needs replacing , replace only with control chemicals which can harm rubber . approved bolt shown in the Repair Parts â¢ Avoid stumps , stones , deep ruts , sharp section of this manual . objects and other hazards that may Blade adapter Key Crankshaft cause tire damage . keyway DRIVE WHEELS Lockwasher Check front drive wheels each time before you mow to be sure they move freely . Blade The wheels not turning freely means trash , grass cuttings , etc . are in the drive wheel area and must be cleaned to free drive wheels . If necessary to clean the drive wheels , be sure to clean both front wheels . Blade 1 . Remove hubcaps , Iocknuts & washers . bolt Hardened / \ 2 . Remove wheels from wheel adjusters . washer Trailing edge Crankshaft 3 . Remove any trash or grass cuttings TO SHARPEN BLADE from inside the dust cover , pinion and / NOTE : We do not recommend sharpening or drive wheel gear teeth . the blade - but if you do , be sure the blade 4 . Put wheels back in place . is balanced . Care should be taken to keep NOTE : If after cleaning , the drive wheels the blade balanced . An unbalanced blade will do not turn freely , contact a Sears or other cause eventual damage to mower or engine . qualified service center . â¢ The blade can be sharpened with a file BLADE CARE or on a grinding wheel . Do not attempt to sharpen while on the mower . For best results , blade must be kept sharp . â¢ To check blade balance , drive a nail into Replace a bent or damaged blade . a beam or wall . Leave about one inch of CAUTION : Use only a replacement blade the straight nail exposed . Place center approved bythe manufacturer of your mower . hole of blade over the head of the nail . Using a blade not approved by the manu - If blade is balanced , it should remain in facturer of your mower is hazardous , could a horizontal position . If either end of the damage your mower and void your warranty . blade moves downward , sharpen the TO REMOVE BLADE heavy end until the blade is balanced . 1 . Disconnect spark plug wire from spark GRASS CATCHER plug and place wire where it cannot â¢ The grass catcher may be hosed with come in contact with plug . water , but must be dry when used . 2 . Turn lawn mower on its side . Make â¢ Check your grass catcher often for dam - sure air filter and carburetor are up . age or deterioration . Through normal 3 . Use a wood block between blade and use it will wear . If catcher needs replac - mower housing to prevent blade from ing , replace only with approved replace - turning when removing blade bolt . ment catcher shown in the Repair Parts NOTE : Protect your hands with gloves section of this manual . Give the lawn and / or wrap blade with heavy cloth . mower model number when ordering . 4 . Remove blade bolt by turning counter - GEAR CASE clockwise . 5 . Remove blade & attaching hardware â¢ To keep your drive system working ( bolt , lock washer & hardened washer ) . properly , the gear case and area around the drive should be kept clean and free TO REPLACE BLADE of trash build - up . Clean under the drive 1 . Position blade on the blade adapter cover twice a season . aligning the two ( 2 ) holes in the blade The gear case is filled with lubricant to the with the raised lugs on the adapter . proper level at the factory . The only time 2 . Be sure the trailing edge of blade ( oppo - the lubricant needs attention is if service site sharp edge ) is up toward the engine . has been performed on the gear case . 3 . Install the blade bolt with the lock If lubricant is required , use only Texaco washer and hardened washer into Starplex Premium 1 Grease , Part No . blade adapter and crankshaft . 14 750369 . Do not substitute . Page: 15

ENGINE engine will smoke heavily from the muffler on startup . LUBRICATION 8 . Always be sure to retighten oil dipstick Use only high quality detergent oil rated with before starting engine . API service classification SG - SL . Select the 9 . Reconnect spark plug wire to spark plug . oil's SAE viscosity grade according to your AIR FILTER expected operating temperature . Your engine will not run properly and SAE VISCOSITY GRADES may be damaged by using a dirty air filter . Replace the air filter cartridge every 100 hours of operation or every season , F - 20 0 30 32 40 60 80 100 whichever occurs first . Service air cleaner c J0 - 27 - 1 ; ; 17 _ 0 _ 0 4 ; more often under dusty conditions . TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE TO CLEAN AIR FILTER NOTE : Although multi - viscosity oils 1 . Loosen screw and tilt cover to remove . ( 5W30 , 10W30 etc . ) improve starting in 2 . Carefully remove cartridge . cold weather , these multi - viscosity oils will 3 . Clean by gently tapping on a flat sur - result in increased oil consumption when face . If very dirty , replace cartridge . used above 32 Â° F . Check your engine oil _ I , CAUTION : Petroleum solvents , such level more frequently to avoid possible as kerosene , are not to be used to clean engine damage from running low on oil . cartridge . They may cause deterioration Change the oil after every 25 hours of op - of the cartridge . Do not oil cartridge . Do eration orat least once a year if the mower not use pressurized air to clean or dry is not used for 25 hours in one year . cartridge . Check the crankcase oil level before 4 . Install cartridge , then replace cover starting the engine and after each five ( 5 ) making sure the tabs are aligned with hours of continuous use . Tighten oil plug the slots in the back plate . Fasten securely each time you check the oil level . screw securely . TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL Lip Back plate NOTE : Before tipping lawn mower to drain oil , empty fuel tank by running engine until fuel tank is empty . 1 . Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in contact with plug . 2 . Remove engine oil cap ; lay aside on a clean surface . 3 . Tip lawn mower on its side as shown Cartridge and drain oil into a suitable container . Slot Rock lawn mower back and forth to re - move any oil trapped inside of engine . Cover Cover tab MUFFLER Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it could create a fire hazard and / or damage . SPARK PLUG Replace spark plug at the beginning of each mowing season or after every 100 4 . Wipe off any spilled oil from lawn hours of operation , whichever occurs mower or side of engine . first . Spark plug type and gap setting 5 . Slowly pour oil down the oil fill spout , are shown in the " PRODUCT SPECIFIC - stopping every few ounces to check the ATIONS " section of this manual . oil level with the dipstick . CLEANING 6 . Stop adding oil when you reach the FULL mark on the dipstick . Wait a IMPORTANT : For best performance , minute to allow oil to settle . keep mower housing free of built - grass 7 . Continue adding small amounts of oil , and trash . Clean the underside of your rechecking the dipstick until oil level mower after each use . settles at FULL . DO NOT overfill , or 15 Page: 16

â¢ We do not recommend using a garden _ I : _ CAUTION : Disconnect spark plug wire hose to clean lawn mower unless the from spark plug and place wire where it electrical system , muffler , air filter and cannot come in contact with plug . carburetor are covered to keep water â¢ Clean the underside of your lawn mower out . Water in engine can result in short - by scraping to remove build - up of grass ened engine life . and trash . CLEAN UNDER DRIVE COVER â¢ Clean engine often to keep trash from Clean under drive cover at least twice a sea - accumulating . A clogged engine runs son . Scrape underside of cover with putty hotter and shortens engine life . knife or similar tool to remove any build - up â¢ Keep finished surfaces and wheels free of all gasoline , oil , etc . of trash or grass on underside of drive cover . _ , WARNING : To avoid serious injury , before performing any service and Drive adjustments : cover 1 . Release control bar and stop engine . 2 . Make sure the blade and all moving parts have completely stopped . 3 . Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in contact with plug . _ , \ \ " , 8 ' _ Gearcase LAWN MOWER TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT See " TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT " in the Operation section of this manual . REAR DEFLECTOR TO REPLACE DRIVE BELT The rear deflector , attached between the rear wheels of your mower , is provided to 1 . Place new drive belt in engine pulley and belt retainer of debris shield . minimize the possibility that objects will be thrown out of the rear of the mower 2 . Route the other end of the new drive into the operator mowing position . If the belt through hole in housing . 3 . Reinstall debris shield . deflector becomes damaged , it should be replaced . 4 . Return mower to upright position . 5 . Install new belt on gearcase pulley . TO REMOVE DRIVE BELT 6 . Reinstall belt keeper and drive cover . NOTE : Always use factory approved belt 1 . Remove drive cover and belt keeper . to assure proper fit and long life . 2 . Remove belt from gearcase pulley . 7 . Turn lawn mower on its side with air 3 . Turn lawn mower on its side with air filter and carburetor down . filter and carburetor down . 8 . Reinstall blade . 4 . Remove blade , engine pulley and debris shield . Engine pulley 5 . Remove engine pulley and belt from debris shield . Drive belt Belt retainer 16 Debris shield Page: 17

TO ADJUST HANDLE The handle can be mounted in a high or low position . The mounting holes in the bottom of lower handle are off center for raising or lowering the handle . 1 . Remove upper handle and wire tie ( s ) securing cable ( s ) to lower handle . 2 . Remove trimplate from lower handle . Screws Lower handle Trimplate ROTATE ENGINE ENGINE SPEED Your engine speed has been factory set . Do not attempt to increase engine speed 3 . Remove hairpin cotters from lower or it may result in personal injury . If you handle bracket mounting pin . believe that engine is running too fast or too slow , take your mower to a Sears or Mowing _ - < _ Mowing other qualified service center for repair position I position and adjustment . j I / / CARBURETOR j J ] I I / j F / / Your carburetor is not adjustable . If your / \ I / / I _ 1 / / engine does not operate properly due to suspected carburetor problems , take H your lawn mower to a Sears or other cotterS ) / _ " bracke t _ . / _ ' qualified service center for repair and / or Mountingf " f _ z _ _ f ' _ - J . L _ adjustment . pm LOW POSITION HIGH POSITION IMPORTANT : Never tamper with the engine governor , which is factory set for proper engine speed . Overspeeding 4 . Squeeze lower handle in to remove it the engine above the factory high speed from mounting pins . setting can be dangerous . If you think 5 . Turn lower handle over to raise or lower handle . the engine - governed high speed needs adjusting , contact a Sears or other 6 . Squeeze lower handle in and position qualified service center , which has proper holes onto mounting pins on handle equipment and experience to make any bracket . necessary adjustments . 7 . Reassemble trimplate to lower handle . 8 . Reassemble upper handle and all parts removed from lower handle . Immediately prepare your lawn mower for 1 . Clean entire lawn mower ( See " CLEANING " in the Maintenance sec - storage at the end of the season or if the unit will not be used for 30 days or more . tion of this manual ) . 2 . Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance LAWN MOWER section of this manual . When lawn mower is to be stored for a 3 . Be sure that all nuts , bolts , screws , and period of time , clean it thoroughly , remove pins are securely fastened . Inspect all dirt , grease , leaves , etc . Store in a moving parts for damage , breakage clean , dry area . 17 and wear . Replace if necessary . Page: 18

4 . Touchup all rustedor chipped paint gas can damagethe fuelsystem of an surfaces ; sand lightly before painting . engine while instorage . â¢ Empty the fuel tank by startingthe en - HANDLE gine and letting it run until the fuel lines and carburetorare empty . Youcanfoldyourmowerhandlefor storage . â¢ Never use engine or tcarburetorcleaner 1 . Squeezethe bottom ends of the lower handle toward each other until the products in the fuel tank or permanen damage mayoccur . lower handle clears the handle bracket , â¢ Use fresh fuel next season . then move handleforward . NOTE : Fuel stabilizer is an nacceptableofdged 2 . Loosen upperhandle mountingbolts alternative in minimizing the oformationAdau enough to allow upper handleto be folded back . fuel gum deposits during storage . stabilizerto gasoline infuel tank or stor IMPORTANT : Whenfolding the handle for container . Alwaysfollowthe mix ratiof storageor transportation , be sureto fold on stabilizercontainer . Run engine at leastw the handle as shown or you may damage the control cables . 10 minutes after adding stabilizer to allo thestabilizerto reachthecarburetor . Donot â¢ When setting upyour handlefrom theill empty the gas tank and carburetor if using storage position , the lower handlew fuel stabilizer . automatically lockinto mowingposition . ENGINE OIL SQUEEZE TO FOLD Drain oil ( with engine warm ) and replace with clean engine oil . ( See " ENGINE " in Lower handle the Maintenance section of this manual ) . CYLINDER 1 . Remove spark plug , 2 . Pour one ounce ( 29 ml ) of oil through spark plug hole into cylinder . 3 . Pull starter handle slowly a few times Operator MOWING to distribute oil . presence POSITION 4 . Replace with new spark plug . control bar BATTERY Disconnect the battery from the engine connector and charge battery 48 hours , OTHER â¢ Do not store gasoline from one season to another . â¢ Replace your gasoline can if your can Handle knob starts to rust . Rust and / or dirt in your gasoline will cause problems . â¢ If possible , store your unit indoors and cover it to protect it from dust and dirt . Lower handle â¢ Cover your unit with a suitable protec - tive cover that does not retain moisture . ENGINE Do not use plastic . Plastic cannot FUEL SYSTEM breathe , which allows condensation to form and will cause your unit to rust . IMPORTANT : It is important to prevent IMPORTANT : Never cover mower while gum deposits from forming in essential engine and exhaust areas are still warm . fuel system parts such as carburetor , fuel A & CAUTION : Never store the lawn filter , fuel hose , or tank during storage , Alcohol blended fuels ( called gasohol or mower with gasoline in the tank inside a using ethanol or methanol ) can attract building where fumes may reach an open moisture which leads to separation and flame or spark . Allow the engine to cool formation of acids during storage , Acidic before storing in any enclosure . 18 Page: 19